Five Years Old!

Our big girl turned five on Sunday. I have a new appreciation for the saying "the days are long but the years are short."

The festivities began on Friday, when Grandmom and Grandpa came to visit. They brought a special gift.







A doll made by Grandmom's friend. Mommy had one when she was a little girl, and Sabine loved to play with Strawberry Girl. So when Sabine's own arrived, she promptly named her Blueberry Girl.






Aspen reserves her excitement for avocado and the cats.



In the 24 hour period after her arrival, Blueberry Girl managed to go on a food drive in our neighborhood, helping gather donations for our local food pantry





and go for a hike



and out to eat, although I forgot to get a picture at the restaurant.

On Sunday, both girls were up bright and early, so we began the day with some presents from mom and dad, and a few from relatives that had arrived in the mail.





After breakfast, we had to quick get ready for the party, which Sabine wanted to do at the same gymnastics place as we did it last year. That was fine with us--her guest list included 25 of her nearest and dearest, 22 of whom attended, (along with siblings and parents) so we were just as happy not to be at our house!

The kids spent a good hour burning energy on all of the fun equipment.







At the end, they did a few games with a parachute.











Culminating in one where Sabine sat in the middle, and everyone walked around slowly, holding the parachute, wrapping her up.



Then with a quick tug, she went spinning. THAT was fun!



One shot of most of the group!



Then Sabine got to lead the line to the tables.



We had some pizza



And then a Lalaloopsy cake. Sabine decided what kind of cake she wanted months ago. We had a little cake done professionally (mommy's cake decorating skills were not up to Lalaloopsy) and then had cupcakes to go around.





There were several new faces at the party this year, including little siblings



And little cousins!



Once we got home, we didn't have a whole lot of time for presents, (although Sabine certainly got quite the haul!)



though one special "boyfriend" insisted that his mother stop for pink roses on their way to the party for Sabine, so we immediately got those into water when we got home. I think they kind of blew her mind.



Some good friends came up from the Springs, so we had them back to our house after the party, and then we all walked over to Nana and Aunt Dani's, to visit with them.



Where Sabine got more lovely presents!





Nana and Aunt Dani somehow knew she loved Polly Pockets, and she now has practically an entire Polly Pocket village! We just have to keep the little parts away from a certain little sister.



And little cousin!



All in all, it was a great celebration for an incredible little (big) girl. Sabine, we love you to the moon and back. You are strong and independent and kind and compassionate, and we couldn't be prouder of the amazing person you continue to be.